Kevin W. Bounds

Isaiah 11:1-10

Isaiah prophesies of a shoot springing forth from the stem of Jesse. If one remembers, Jesse was King David’s father. This is the messianic promise which will fulfill God’s covenant with David concerning his household reigning on the throne. Jesus Christ of Nazareth was from the lineage of David. He is now reigning at the right hand of God.

In this passage, Isaiah states, “…He will not judge by what His eyes see, Nor make a decision by what His ears hear” ( Isa 11:3). Jesus fulfilled this in His first advent. When one looks at the Gospels, Christ repeatedly referred to doing the Father’s will. He truly did make righteous judgments.

Isaiah also writes, “…and He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth…” (Isa 11:4). Christ’s teaching revealed the way of the kingdom of heaven. The commandments of Christ are often viewed as revolutionary. Kingdom principles are many times reverse than our earthly notions.

Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19

There are many observations which could be made about this beautiful Psalm. However,  I will only comment on verse  18. It states, ”  Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, Who alone works wonders (Psalm 72:18). Our God is an awesome wonder working God! Although you may be facing great trials, know that God is able to deliver you from them all! What a blessing to know that our God can do the impossible!

Romans 15:4-13

I found it interesting the link in Pauline thought between Scripture and God. In Paul’s mind, both are sources of “perseverance and encouragement” (see verse 4-5) which produce hope.

Matthew 3:1-12

It is weird to see the adult John the Baptist introducing the grownup Jesus, as we prepare our hearts to reflect on the birth of Christ. It doesn’t fit narratively. However, the spiritual principles applied to Christ first advent should be applied to His second coming. We should await His second appearing with repentant hearts.

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